People who survive severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) live with profound cognitive impairments that alter their developmental course and define their future possibilities. Worldwide, TBI is the leading cause of death and disability among children and adolescents (Murgio, 2000). In the United States, the annual incidence of TBI is six times greater than that of multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS, spinal cord injury, and breast cancer combined [Centers for Disease Control, American Cancer Society, National Multiple Sclerosis Society]. The burden of TBI may be even greater in developing countries, due to civil unrest and war, and to the absence of mandated prevention such as seat belt laws.

The long-term objective of the investigators' research group is to improve outcomes for survivors of TBI in Latin America. To that end, the investigators have created a structure for professionals and institutions involved in the treatment of TBI to generate research; to facilitate education, standardization, certification, the dissemination of information and resources; and to foster the development of evidence-based guidelines. The structure is the Latin American Brain Injury Consortium (LABIC).

within 24 hours of deterioration [patients deteriorating to GCS < 8 within 48 hours of injury]

Age > 12

Exclusion Criteria:

GCS of 3 with bilateral fixed and dilated pupils and/or decision to not actively treat prior to enrolment into study

No beds available in ICU

No ICP monitor available

Pregnancy

Prisoner

No consent

Non-survivable injury

Other (e.g., Pre-injury life expectancy under 1 year)

Pre-existing neurological disability that would not allow follow-up

Contacts and Locations

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Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01068522